Carers could face smoking ban
FOSTER parents in Rotherham who smoke could be banned from looking after children under five.
The move is part of a campaign to reduce the possible risk to children's health from passive smoking.
Under proposed new rules being considered by Rotherham Council children under five would not be placed with families who smoke.
But older children would be offered a choice of whether they want to be looked after by a smoking or non-smoking carer.
At the same time carers would be warned they should not buy cigarettes for children, and they should never be used as a reward for good behaviour.
Young people and children in council care who smoke would be offered advice on how to kick the habit.
A council report says smoking has been linked to cot death, respiratory infections, asthma and middle ear disease in very young children.
Long-term exposure to smoking can also lead to chances of contracting cancer and heart disease in later life.
The report says a survey by its fostering service had shown there were 16 carers who smoked. Of these three said it would be so difficult to stop they may have to stop fostering. But a number of foster carers have stopped smoking during the last 12 to 24 months, according to the report.
The report adds: "Discussions with foster carers of children who continue to smoke have indicated a very responsible approach to the issue."
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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